National Economics Challenge

The National Economics Challenge (NEC) is the country’s only economics competition of its kind for high school students. It tests micro and macroeconomic principles as well as knowledge of the world economy.

In light of the challenges presented by COVID-19, the NEC’s National Semi-Finals and National Finals will be held online. The National Semi-Finals are now slated for May 13-14. More details to follow. For information on local/state competitions, contact your state coordinator, who can be found through the registration page.

Please note that as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact those inolved in the competition, we will monitor the situation and make timing decisions based on any changes as it evolves. Watch this page for more up-to-date information.

FALL 2019-SPRING 2020: NATIONAL ECONOMICS CHALLENGE BEGINSTeachers may register teams of up three-to-four high school students. Teams then compete on the state level. Teachers can form any number of teams, so this makes a great classroom activity. Check with your local Council for Economic Education affiliate for state competition dates.

*NEW DATE*WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020 : NATIONAL SEMI-FINALSState competition winners compete online to determine who will advance to the National Finals.Make-up dates for teams on spring break or with valid absence will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2020.

SATURDAY, MAY 17—MONDAY, MAY 18, 2020 : NATIONAL FINALSThe top teams in each division from the National Semi-Finals compete for the national title online.

Click here for a recap of 2019’s National Economics Challenge, including photos and video!

Each member as well as one coach from the top four USA teams of the National Economics Challenge will receive a medal and certificate of their accomplishment as well as a cash prize corresponding to their team’s rank:

1st place: $1,0002nd place: $5003rd place: $250

The competition runs in two divisions:

DAVID RICARDO DIVISION

For first-time Challenge competitors who have taken no more than one economics course

ADAM SMITH DIVISION

For AP, international baccalaureate, and honors students (as well as any returning competitors)

Students, feel free to share this link with potential teacher/coaches and teammates! Let your teachers know that they can register today!

The Council for Economic Education (CEE) created the National Economics Challenge in 2000 to promote student interest in economics, reinforce classroom instruction, and to encourage teamwork and school spirit. In 2019, more than 10,000 high school students from the US and 2,300 from China participated. The National Economics Challenge is one of CEE’s key initiatives to focus public attention on the benefits of economic literacy and the need for a high-quality, standards-based economics curriculum in every state.